Njuri Ncheke, the supreme traditional council of elders among the Ameru community of Kenya, is expanding its role from a cultural, governing and judicial body to one that also champions reproductive justice for current and future generations.
Meru County faces high rates of teenage pregnancies and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), with more than 9,500 teen mothers recorded in 2023 and 336 SGBV cases reported in 2025, mostly involving adolescents. In addition, family breakdowns have been reported in the news linked to cultural normalization of domestic violence. The fear of stigma and rejection also often makes it difficult for victims, especially men and those experiencing psychological abuse, to seek help or even follow up on such cases.
In response to these growing concerns, Ipas Africa Alliance has partnered with Njuri Ncheke, recognizing their unique influence as custodians of Ameru culture and wisdom, to address these critical issues. “Through this strategy, Ipas seeks to equip this traditional authority with the tools and knowledge needed to champion reproductive justice, aligning their longstanding mission of upholding women’s dignity with contemporary health advocacy” Beryl Moraa, Community Engagement Associate, Ipas Africa Alliance.
Challenging harmful gender norms
In addition, the Njuri Ncheke group has received support from Ipas through targeted capacity building that equips elders with accurate, evidence‑based information to counter misinformation and harmful narratives, while also promoting positive male masculinity to shift social norms and prevent gender‑based violence (GBV), thereby empowering elders to become more informed about reproductive health and actively challenge harmful gender norms.
Reproductive health education should be embraced by both boys and girls, given the rise in teenage pregnancies, HIV and other diseases, which is a result of them engaging in early unprotected sex.
Redefining culture through equality
Njuri Ncheke believes that their greatest power lies in redefining culture through equality and guiding young people.
Because of this, the elders propose structured dialogues between them and the youth, mentorship programs in schools, and nomination of young Njuri ambassadors to bridge traditional and modern governance. They are also working to redefine masculinity by promoting Kimeru sayings like ntaa ciaa mwana itikan kwa mwana (a man’s strength is known by how he protects others).
As they aim to ensure fair treatment of women on matters like inheritance and leadership positions, funding for this initiative is also helping strengthen a network of practice in which traditional leaders actively promote gender-sensitive programs.